THE launch of an independent book shop in Stow last week proved so popular that not everyone could fit inside the building.

Wedale Bookshop, situated on the Galashiels Road opposite the war memorial, opened on Friday (April 7).

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The cosy bookshop aims to serve the wider Gala Water community and beyond – being ideally located on the A7 and Borders Railway for locals and visitors arriving on foot, by train, bike or car.

The shop has a range of books on a variety of subjects including history, food, gardening, poetry, horror, crime and has a large environment and nature section.

It also stocks classics and children’s books along with gifts, games and toys, and display work from local artists.

Opening the shop has been a dream of owner Gordon Stewart for many years.

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He told the Border Telegraph: “A friend of mine pointed out that I’d been banging on about opening a book shop for 34 years so in 2020 during lockdown I decided it’s now or never.

“Starting any business these days is difficult but I’ve always been amazed at how well independent book shops do in the Borders.

“And this first weekend has been overwhelming.

“It’s been really incredible since we opened. We had no idea that so many people would come along. At one point we couldn’t fit everyone inside the building.

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“It seemed that half of the village had turned up. We also had customers from Heriot, Fountainhall, Oxton and Lauder plus others from Gattonside, Galashiels, Melrose and Selkirk. Our aim is to be a book shop for the whole of TD1.

“We also have an ethical and sustainable edge and encourage the use of public transport. We are only five minutes from the railway station and we had people arriving by train.

“Stow, or Stow on Wedale to give the village its Sunday name, is such an amazing and fascinating place with so much history and such lovely walks, cycle routes and challenging hills.

“We hope the book shop will provide another reason for people to visit and spend the day here.

“There is so much happening in Stow and I’m just delighted to be part of it. I feel so lucky to have the support of the people in the village.

“Please look out for us if you're passing and pop by and say hello.”